Globus family of brands (GFOB) has made several important updates to its pre-trip health and safety protocols.

In order to participate in one of GFOB’s tours, river cruises or independent holiday packages in Australia and abroad, guests are now required to provide either proof of COVID-19 vaccination at least 14 days prior to travel, proof of a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of travel, or proof of recovery from a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis within three months of travel.

Without one of these verifications, travellers will not be able to join a planned holiday with Globus, Cosmos, Avalon Waterways or Monograms.

These requirements are in addition to any federal or state government regulations. GFOB also noted that its regulations, restrictions and travel requirements differ depending on the country of departure.

Gai Tyrrell, managing director for Australasia at GFOB, said: “The health and safety of our travellers is our number one priority.

“We have continued to enhance on-trip safety standards throughout the pandemic to ensure we’re ready to welcome guests back to travel when the world is ready. Today, we’re unveiling new pre-trip requirements.”

In addition to unveiling new COVID-19 parameters required at the start of each holiday departure, GFOB will facilitate and cover additional testing, if required, for guests to return to their home country, as well as tests on trips if guests show symptoms.

These new protocols will take effect in April 2021.

And, to ease pre-trip stress, the company is also now offering guests more payment flexibility by shortening the final payment window for all brands to 45 days prior to departure.

“In a world of uncertainty, we want travellers to enjoy peace of mind that their holiday and their finances are in good hands,” Tyrrell said.

“As they get closer to their departure date, they can feel confident about – and excited for – their journey, knowing that final payment is not due until six weeks before they’re scheduled to go.”

“If our guests are unable to go on their holiday due to COVID-19 restrictions, our complimentary Peace of Mind Travel Plan gives them the flexibility to move their plans to any other 2021 or 2022 date, destination, itinerary, or even another brand in our vast travel portfolio, without penalty.

“We’re offering travellers risk-free bookings.”

Featured image source: iStock/Ridofranz